Many of us, at one time in our lives, have experienced trauma. These can include things that we typically identify as traumas like a car accident, natural disaster, shooting, and systematic physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. However, many of us also suffer from invisible emotional and relational trauma that block us from attaining our goals and keep us stuck in the past. This trauma is usually relayed to us through messages that we receive from important people in our lives (like family), or the environment (school, workplace). When we repeatedly receive negative messages about ourselves we begin to internalize them and view our world and relationships through this negative lens. Some common beliefs that develop are: “I am unlovable,” “I am out of control,” and “I am worthless.” In addition, we are often held back by guilt or shame.

Trauma becomes stuck in the nervous system at the time it occurred. Every time something reminds you of the trauma you become triggered and all of the related thoughts, emotions, sights, and sounds can come rushing back. This process is largely unconscious and can cause symptoms such as anxiety and depression, as well as impact how you relate to people and the world. Our goal is to help you gain the insight and tools to unlock the trauma so you can start to move past it and live life to the fullest.

At Cobb Psychotherapy LCSW we don’t have a one-size-fits-all definition of trauma. Every person experiences the world differently and some things may be traumatic for one person but not affect another. We invite you to come up with your own definition of trauma, and our therapists will work with you as a team to overcome these blocks. Our expert therapists are trained in multiple therapeutic modalities to help you work through trauma. Some of these include EMDR and trauma-focused CBT.

Blogs on Trauma

I work with many clients who have experienced trauma. Beginning the healing process can feel uncomfortable and overwhelming for clients because it is not a linear process. Not being able to know exactly how things will unfold can be distressing for both therapists and clients. It can be helpful to have a bit of a “road map” even if that road isn’t perfectly straight or flat. I love the three stage model Judith Herman outlined in her book Trauma and Recovery because it allows for a lot of customization and takes a very holistic approach.

Meet Bethany Nickerson, LMSW. Bethany specializes in working with survivors of trauma and the anxiety and depression that comes along with it. She is certified in EMDR and also uses acceptance based mindfulness exercises to support clients.

Nadia Ackerman is an Australian singer/songwriter and illustrator. However, she’s also much more — a survivor. Nadia uses her art to spread awareness about childhood sexual abuse and to share the message that there’s hope to heal and live again. You can see Nadia’s inspirational and uplifting work in the offices of Cobb Psychotherapy.